9 Best Short Ribs Recipes: Delicious Options for Every Cook

Short ribs are a flavorful and tender cut of meat that can elevate any meal. Home cooks often look for the best ways to prepare this ingredient, as it can be used in various delicious recipes. I believe discovering the 9 best short ribs recipes will inspire you to enjoy this cut in new ways.

Cooking short ribs can seem intimidating, but with the right techniques, even beginners can achieve great results. Whether braised, grilled, or slow-cooked, these recipes showcase the rich flavors that short ribs can offer. Each recipe brings its unique twist, allowing you to find the perfect fit for your taste and occasion.

1. Korean BBQ Short Ribs

Korean BBQ short ribs, known as galbi or kalbi, are a delicious dish featuring beef ribs marinated in a mix of soy sauce, sugar, garlic, and sesame oil. This dish is flavorful and tender.

Making Korean BBQ short ribs is fairly easy and enjoyable. I find that the marinating process enhances the taste significantly. To prepare them, I follow these basic steps:

1. Choose the Ribs: I select beef short ribs with a good layer of meat. The quality of the meat is important for the best flavor.
2. Prepare the Marinade: I mix soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, sesame oil, and black pepper in a bowl. I often add grated pear for extra sweetness.
3. Marinate the Ribs: I place the ribs in the marinade and let them sit for at least 2 hours, or overnight for more flavor.
4. Grill: I preheat my grill to medium-high heat and cook the marinated ribs for about 4-5 minutes per side, until they are nicely charred and cooked through.
5. Serve: I enjoy them hot, often alongside rice and kimchi.

Korean BBQ short ribs offer a unique taste that I love sharing with friends and family.

2. Red Wine Braised Short Ribs

Red wine braised short ribs are a delicious dish that combines tender meat with rich flavors. The process involves cooking short ribs in red wine and broth, resulting in a hearty meal.

I find this recipe to be quite easy to make. It requires minimal preparation but does take some time to cook. Here are the simple steps I follow:

1. Season the short ribs with salt and pepper.
2. Sear the ribs in a hot pan with oil until browned on all sides.
3. Remove the ribs and sauté onions, carrots, and garlic in the same pan.
4. Deglaze the pan with red wine, scraping up any browned bits.
5. Add the short ribs back to the pot along with beef broth, herbs, and spices.
6. Cover and braise in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 3 hours.

The end result is fork-tender short ribs full of flavor. It pairs well with mashed potatoes or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

3. Slow Cooker Short Ribs

Slow cooker short ribs are a delicious and easy meal option. They are cut of beef from the rib area, known for their rich flavor and tenderness. Using a slow cooker makes them ideal for busy days.

To make slow cooker short ribs, I start by seasoning the ribs with salt and pepper. Next, I sear them in a pan for extra flavor. Then, I put them in the slow cooker.

I add simple ingredients like onions, garlic, and a mix of beef broth and red wine. This creates a tasty sauce that enhances the beef. I usually cook the ribs on low heat for about 7 to 8 hours or on high heat for 4 to 5 hours.

When they’re ready, the meat should be tender and easily pull away from the bone. I love to serve them with mashed potatoes or crusty bread to soak up the sauce. This recipe allows for easy preparation and delivers great results.

4. Garlic Butter Short Ribs

Garlic Butter Short Ribs are a tasty dish that combines the rich flavor of short ribs with the smoothness of garlic butter. This recipe is simple and doesn’t require advanced cooking skills.

To make this dish, I start with beef short ribs. I season them with salt and pepper. Then, I sear the ribs in a hot skillet until they are browned on all sides.

Next, I add minced garlic and butter to the pan. The garlic adds a delicious aroma and flavor. I then pour in some broth or wine to give depth to the dish.

After that, I cover the pot and let the ribs cook slowly. I keep them on low heat for about 2 to 3 hours until they are tender. During this time, I stir occasionally and check the liquid level.

Once done, I remove the ribs and let them rest before serving. The garlic butter sauce is perfect for drizzling over the top. This dish pairs well with mashed potatoes or a simple salad.

5. Mexican Spiced Short Ribs

Mexican spiced short ribs are a flavorful dish that showcases bold flavors and tender meat. They are simple to make and perfect for a comforting meal.

I use a mix of spices like cumin, oregano, and chili powder to create a rich marinade. The spices infuse the ribs with warmth and depth. I recommend marinating the meat for at least two hours, but overnight is even better.

For cooking, I follow these steps:

1. Prep: Season the short ribs with salt and apply the spice mixture evenly.
2. Sear: Heat oil in a large pot. Add the ribs and brown on all sides for about 5-7 minutes.
3. Cook: Add broth, cover the pot, and simmer on low heat for 2-3 hours until tender.
4. Serve: Remove the ribs from the pot, let them rest, then serve with your choice of sides, like rice or tortillas.

This dish is not only delicious, but it also makes a great meal for gatherings, showcasing the rich culinary traditions of Mexico.

6. Cajun Spicy Short Ribs

Cajun spicy short ribs are a flavorful dish that showcases bold spices. This recipe combines the tenderness of beef short ribs with a zesty blend of Cajun seasonings. It’s a satisfying meal that I enjoy preparing for gatherings.

Making Cajun spicy short ribs is not too complicated. It requires basic cooking skills and can be done in a few steps.

1. Ingredients: Gather short ribs, Cajun seasoning, garlic, onion, and broth.
2. Season: Rub the Cajun seasoning all over the short ribs and let them sit for about 30 minutes.
3. Sear: In a heavy pot, heat some oil and brown the ribs on all sides. This adds rich flavor.
4. Sauté: Remove the ribs and sauté chopped onions and garlic until soft.
5. Cook: Add the ribs back to the pot, cover with broth, and simmer for about 2 to 3 hours until tender.
6. Serve: Once cooked, I like to serve them with rice or cornbread to soak up the delicious juices.

This dish brings a taste of Cajun culture to your table and is perfect for anyone who loves spicy flavors.

7. Teriyaki Glazed Short Ribs

Teriyaki glazed short ribs offer a sweet and savory flavor that is hard to resist. The teriyaki sauce is made from soy sauce, sugar, and mirin, providing a rich taste to the meat.

I find this recipe easy to make with just a few steps. First, I marinate the short ribs in teriyaki sauce for at least 30 minutes. This helps the flavors soak in.

Next, I preheat my oven to 300°F (150°C). I then place the marinated ribs on a baking sheet. I bake them for about 2.5 to 3 hours, turning them halfway for even cooking.

During the last 15 minutes, I brush extra teriyaki sauce on the ribs and increase the oven temperature to 400°F (200°C). This gives them a nice, caramelized finish.

Once they are done, I let the ribs rest for a few minutes. Then, I slice them and serve. This dish pairs well with steamed rice or grilled vegetables, making a complete meal that is both delicious and satisfying.

8. Smoky BBQ Short Ribs

Smoky BBQ short ribs are a flavorful dish that brings out the rich taste of beef. These ribs are perfect for barbecues or family gatherings. They combine the smoky flavor of wood with the tenderness of slow-cooked meat.

I find this recipe quite easy to make. It requires basic ingredients and methods. Typically, you start with beef short ribs, dry rub spices, and your choice of wood for smoking.

Here are the steps:

1. Prepare the Ribs: Trim any excess fat from the short ribs.
2. Season: Apply your favorite dry rub to the ribs. Let them sit for at least an hour.
3. Preheat the Smoker: Set up your smoker to around 225°F (107°C) using hardwood like hickory or oak.
4. Smoke the Ribs: Place the ribs in the smoker. Cook for about 6 hours, or until they reach an internal temperature of 190°F (88°C).
5. Finish with Sauce: Brush your favorite BBQ sauce on the ribs during the last 30 minutes of cooking for added flavor.

These steps will help you create delicious smoky BBQ short ribs that everyone will enjoy.

9. Honey Balsamic Short Ribs

What Is the Nutritional Information of Short Ribs?

Short ribs are a flavorful cut of meat that provide several nutrients. Understanding their nutritional value helps me appreciate them even more when cooking. I’ll break down the caloric content, macronutrient profile, and essential vitamins and minerals found in this delicious cut.

What Is the Caloric Content of Short Ribs?

Short ribs are relatively high in calories due to their fat content. A typical serving of cooked short ribs (about 3 ounces) contains around 300-400 calories.

This calorie range varies depending on the preparation method and specific cut.

When slow-cooked or braised, the fat renders out, offering a rich flavor but also contributing calories.

It’s important for me to consider portion sizes, especially if I’m watching my caloric intake.

What Is the Macronutrient Breakdown of Short Ribs?

The macronutrient profile of short ribs primarily consists of fats and protein, with minimal carbohydrates. A serving can provide approximately:

• Fat: 25-30 grams
• Protein: 20-25 grams
• Carbohydrates: 0 grams

The significant fat content includes both saturated and unsaturated fats, which are essential for flavor but can affect heart health.

The protein content supports muscle health and recovery, making short ribs a hearty option for those needing dietary protein.

What Vitamins and Minerals Do Short Ribs Contain?

Short ribs are a good source of several important vitamins and minerals. They typically contain:

• Iron: Vital for oxygen transport in the blood.
• Zinc: Supports immune function and metabolism.
• B Vitamins: Important for energy production.

In addition, they provide essential nutrients like selenium and phosphorus, which are crucial for various body functions.

These vitamins and minerals contribute to the overall nutritional value, making short ribs a rich, satisfying choice in my meals.

What Are the Best Cooking Techniques for Short Ribs?

Short ribs are versatile and can be cooked using various techniques to enhance their flavor and tenderness. I often choose between braising, grilling, and slow cooking, each method bringing out unique qualities in the meat.

How to Braise Short Ribs?

Braising is my go-to method for cooking short ribs. This technique combines both dry and wet heat. I start by searing the ribs in a hot skillet to develop a rich brown crust, sealing in flavor.

After browning, I add a braising liquid, such as beef broth, wine, or a combination of both. The liquid should cover about half of the meat. I then cover the pot and let it simmer on low heat for several hours. This slow cooking process breaks down the tough fibers of the meat, resulting in tender, flavorful ribs.

What Are Tips for Grilling Short Ribs?

Grilling short ribs can create a delicious, smoky flavor. I prefer using bone-in ribs for grilling, as they tend to retain more moisture. I marinate the ribs for a few hours to add flavor and tenderness.

When ready, I heat my grill to medium-high. I place the ribs directly on the grill and cook them for about 6-8 minutes per side, depending on their thickness. I keep a close eye to avoid flare-ups. Once they develop a nice char and an internal temperature of 145°F is reached, they’re ready to serve.

How to Slow Cook Short Ribs for Tenderness?

Slow cooking is another excellent way to prepare short ribs. It requires minimal effort and delivers tender meat. I place the ribs in a slow cooker with my favorite seasonings, vegetables, and a flavorful liquid, like stock or wine.

Setting the slow cooker to low and letting it work its magic for about 8 hours is key. This extended cooking time allows the meat to become melt-in-your-mouth tender. The result is a rich, savory dish that’s perfect for any meal.